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Tag Archive: #talkmoneyweek

  1. Talk Money Week 2025.

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    Talk Money Week 2025.

    This week is Talk Money Week, an annual event designed to kickstart conversations about managing our finances and highlight the great work being done by credit unions, banks and other organisations that are helping people across the UK attain financial security.

    With the financial impact of the cost of living crisis still being felt by many households in the UK, this year’s Talk Money Week is of the utmost importance to ensure those at the greatest risk of financial hardship are aware that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and that help is available to them.

    Talk Money Week explained.

    Run by the Money and Pension Service (MaPS), Talk Money Week is for everybody and encourages partners, family, friends, colleagues, employees and more to have conversations about their money in an attempt to make the subject less taboo. 

    At present, money is one of the UK’s least favourite topics of discussion, with nine in 10 adults struggling to talk about money or avoiding the subject altogether. The hope is that, by discussing our personal finances more openly, we can all increase our financial and mental wellbeing. 

    Studies indicate that talking about money makes us feel better about it and helps us build healthier money habits, such as saving more regularly and making less risky financial decisions. In addition, talking about money reduces stress and anxiety and strengthens relationships. It also increases the likelihood that the person or people you discuss your finances with will do the same, allowing them to receive the same benefits.

    While talking about your finances with your partner, family and friends should be reasonably straightforward once you’ve broached the subject, discussing it with kids and colleagues is a different proposition. 

    Talking money with children.

    When it comes to kids, it’s never too early to start teaching them about money and helping them understand how to manage it effectively, building their confidence on the subject. 

    If you have kids that receive pocket money, letting them take responsibility for it will develop their financial skills and teach them about the cost of living and the importance of saving from an early age.

    Talking money at work.

    If you’re under financial pressure, talking about it with your colleagues or employer is a great way to start taking back control of your bottom line.

    As for employers, encouraging your employees to discuss their financial circumstances can help them take control of their financial situation and future, including their ability to adapt to and deal with unexpected hardship.

    How can Leeds Credit Union help?

    At Leeds Credit Union, we provide straightforward and affordable financial services to people in Leeds, Wakefield, Harrogate and Craven. We help our members take control of their savings with a range of services, such as loans, savings accounts, including one for children under the age of 18, and a money and budgeting service designed to help people create realistic budgets to ensure they can always pay their bills on time. This helps them achieve financial security now and in the future.

    But, as the name suggests, the most important thing about Talk Money Week is getting people to open up and talk about their money, whether they’re more concerned with their pension or their pocket money.

    We’re big fans of the annual event and would encourage all our members to come together and join the conversation. If you find it difficult to talk about money and would like some advice on starting a financial conversation, MaPS has created a series of guides which could help. There’s also our helpful MABS team who work in partnership with Housing Leeds, helping tenants who are struggling to budget their money and pay their bills.

  2. Talk Money Week: Tips for Financial Responsibility to Improve Your Financial Wellbeing.

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    Talk Money Week: Tips for Financial Responsibility to Improve Your Financial Wellbeing.

    At Leeds Credit Union, we believe that talking openly about money is a critical step towards financial wellbeing. Taking place this week, Talk Money Week is the perfect opportunity to start those vital conversations that can lead to better financial responsibility and stability. Here are some practical tips to help you take control of your finances and improve your overall financial health:

    1. Create a Budget

    One of the most fundamental steps to financial responsibility is creating a budget. A budget helps you understand where your money goes and ensures you live within your means.

    Tips for creating a budget:

    • Track your income and expenses.
    • Categorise your spending (e.g., housing, transportation, groceries).
    • Identify areas where you can cut back.
    • Allocate funds for savings and emergencies.

    If you could do with a hand creating your budget, check out our budget calculator

    2. Build an Emergency Fund

    Unexpected expenses can derail your financial plans. An emergency fund is a financial safety net you can rely on during unforeseen circumstances.

    How to build an emergency fund:

    • Aim to save at least three to six months’ of living expenses.
    • Start small and gradually increase your savings.
    • Keep your emergency fund in a separate, easily accessible savings account.

    3. Manage Debt Wisely

    Debt can be a significant burden on your financial wellbeing. It’s essential to manage it wisely and take steps to reduce it over time.

    Strategies for managing debt:

    • Make a list of all your debts and their interest rates.
    • Prioritise paying off high-interest debts first.
    • Consider consolidating your debts if it lowers your interest rates and simplifies payments.
    • Avoid taking on new debt whenever possible.

    4. Save for the Future

    Saving for the future is a crucial aspect of financial responsibility. Whether for retirement, education or a major purchase, having a savings plan can provide financial security and peace of mind.

    Saving tips:

    • Set specific financial goals (e.g, save £5,000 for a down payment on a house).
    • Automate your savings by setting up a direct deposit to your savings account.
    • Take advantage of employer-sponsored retirement plans and other savings incentives.

    5. Improve Financial Literacy

    Understanding personal finance concepts can significantly affect your financial decisions and wellbeing. Take the time to educate yourself about financial matters.

    Resources for improving financial literacy:

    • Attend financial literacy workshops or seminars.
    • Read books and articles on personal finance.
    • Use online resources and tools, such as budgeting apps and financial calculators.
    • Talk to a financial advisor for personalised advice.

    6. Talk About Money

    Talking openly about money can de-stigmatize financial discussions and provide you with new perspectives and ideas.

    Ways to talk about money:

    • Have regular financial discussions with your family or partner.
    • Join a financial support group or community.
    • Seek advice from trusted friends or mentors.
    • Feel free to ask for help if you’re struggling with your finances.

    At Leeds Credit Union, we’re here to support you on your journey to financial wellbeing. By taking these steps towards financial responsibility, you can build a secure and prosperous future for yourself and your loved ones.

    To find out more about our products and services, visit: https://leedscreditunion.co.uk/